People with Hearing Aids: Is It Still Possible To Use Headphones?

Hearing loss affects many people every day. Some people are born with hearing difficulties, or experience them at an early age. Others experience hearing loss or hearing impairment gradually as they get older. Some people lose their hearing due to tumors, infection or other health reasons.

Hearing loss can make common conversations very difficult. The person has problems understanding what was said and may not react properly. It can become a hindrance at work and in personal relationships.

There are several treatment options for hearing loss today. Hearing aids and cochlear implants are some of the most common alternatives. They can help a person regain part or all of their full hearing function in a short period of time.

People with hearing loss are still able to enjoy their favorite music and entertainment programs. You can read more online about the different kinds of headphones for hearing aids that are on the market today. You can read product specifications, customer reviews and find pricing information.

Here are some facts about headphones for people with hearing aids:

1. Yes, you can wear headphones

People with hearing aids can use headphones to enjoy their favorite music, TV programs, DVDs and movies. There are several models of over-ear, on-ear and bone conduction headphones that work well with hearing aids. Their positioning on or after the ear can vary. Some models may be right on the ear, and others might be right over the hearing aid itself. Take a few minutes to position them carefully. If you hear a whistling sound or feedback from your hearing aids, you may need to adjust the headphones. The sound quality depends on the product make and model, and compatibility with your hearing aids. Ear buds, however, usually do not work with hearing aids.

2. You can still experience hearing loss even when wearing headphones

Remember to turn the volume down to a lower setting, as the sound will be amplified greatly. Listening to music at high volume for consistent periods of time can lead to increased hearing loss. You may want to invest in a portable decibel meter or add a decibel meter app to your phone, so that you can tell how loud the music or sound from your favorite program is. Anything under 80 decibels should be sufficient if you’re listening for an extended period of time. There are also several varieties of noise-cancelling headphones that you can buy. These products filter out any noise, conversations or anything else that can disrupt you from enjoying your favorite entertainment.

3. You can also listen to music through your hearing aids

Recent technology has made it possible for you to enjoy your favorite music directly through your hearing aids. Many such products are wireless, and are Android, iPhone or Bluetooth compatible. They are a very affordable and effective option for many people.

Talk to your doctor or audiologist before buying any sort of headphones or audio devices. You may want to have a hearing test as well. Hearing aids can make life easier, but they aren’t a detriment. You can still participate in meaningful conversations, enjoy life around you and enjoy your favorite music, programs and video games in full comfort.